What is the recommended initial treatment for a burn?

The recommended initial treatment for a burn involves cooling the affected area under running water for at least 10 minutes. This method is effective because it helps to reduce the temperature of the burn, which can minimize tissue damage and alleviate pain. The process of cooling the burn slows down the burning process and can prevent further injury to the skin.

Using running water provides continuous cooling and can wash away any contaminants that might further irritate the burn area. It is important to use lukewarm or cool water, as very cold water or ice can cause additional damage to the tissue and potentially lead to frostbite.

In contrast, applying ice directly to the burn can cause further skin damage, covering the burn with a dry cloth may not provide sufficient cooling, and using substances like butter or oil is outdated advice that can trap heat and promote infection rather than aid in healing.